How to Clear Browser Cache and App Data on iPhone XS to Free Up Space

Key takeaways:

  • Clearing Safari cache removes browsing history, cookies, and website data
  • Offloading apps deletes the app but keeps documents and data, freeing up storage
  • Deleting apps also deletes their cache and data
  • Some apps have in-app settings to clear cache

Why Clear Cache and App Data on iPhone XS?

Over time, your iPhone XS accumulates cache files and app data that can take up valuable storage space. Clearing this data periodically helps keep your device running smoothly and frees up space for the things that matter most to you.

Reasons to clear cache and app data:

  • Free up storage space
  • Improve device performance
  • Protect privacy by removing browsing history and login details
  • Troubleshoot app issues

How to Clear Safari Cache on iPhone XS

Safari, the default web browser on iPhone, stores cache files, browsing history, and website data. Here’s how to clear it:

  1. Open the Settings app
  2. Scroll down and tap Safari
  3. Tap Clear History and Website Data
  4. Confirm by tapping Clear History and Data

This action removes all browsing history, cookies, and other browsing data from Safari.

Offloading Apps to Free Up Space

Offloading an app deletes the app itself but keeps its documents and data. This is a great way to free up storage space without losing important information. To offload an app:

  1. Open Settings > General > iPhone Storage
  2. Select the app you want to offload
  3. Tap Offload App, then confirm by tapping Offload App again

The app will be deleted, but its data will remain. You can reinstall the app from the App Store at any time, and it will retain its data.

Deleting Apps to Clear Cache and Data

If you no longer need an app, deleting it entirely will remove both the app and its associated cache and data. This frees up the most space but means you’ll lose any saved information or progress within the app.

To delete an app:

  1. Touch and hold the app icon on your home screen
  2. Tap Remove App
  3. Tap Delete App, then confirm by tapping Delete

Alternatively, you can delete apps through the iPhone Storage settings:

  1. Open Settings > General > iPhone Storage
  2. Select the app you want to delete
  3. Tap Delete App, then confirm by tapping Delete App

Clearing Cache within Apps

Some apps, like Spotify, have built-in options to clear their cache. To clear the cache within an app:

  1. Open the app
  2. Go to the app’s settings or profile section
  3. Look for options like “Clear Cache” or “Storage”
  4. Tap the appropriate option and confirm

Not all apps have this feature, so you may need to offload or delete the app to clear its cache.

Restart Your iPhone to Clear Cache

Restarting your iPhone can help clear some cache and improve performance. To restart your iPhone XS:

  1. Press and hold the side button and either volume button until the power off slider appears
  2. Drag the slider to turn your device off
  3. After the device turns off, press and hold the side button again until you see the Apple logo

For a force restart:

  1. Press and quickly release the volume up button
  2. Press and quickly release the volume down button
  3. Press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears

FAQ

What is cache, and why should I clear it?

Cache is temporary data stored by apps and websites to help them load faster in the future. Over time, this data can accumulate and take up valuable storage space on your iPhone. Clearing cache frees up space and can help improve device performance.

Will clearing cache delete my important data?

Clearing Safari cache will remove browsing history and login details but won’t delete important data like photos or documents. Offloading an app retains its documents and data, while deleting an app removes everything associated with it.

How often should I clear cache on my iPhone XS?

There’s no set rule, but clearing cache every few months can help keep your iPhone running smoothly. You may want to clear cache more often if you’re running low on storage space or if an app is misbehaving.

Can I set my iPhone to automatically clear cache?

iOS doesn’t have a built-in feature to automatically clear cache. However, you can use third-party apps or set reminders for yourself to clear cache manually on a regular basis.